Featured Artist

"I wanted my designs to have an artisanal technique and recruited artisans from Masaya — a magical place known for its crafts, especially its leatherwork."

Born in 1993, Donald Flores is a young Nicaraguan artisan who has worked to rescue traditional handmade techniques.

"My idea of a perfect existence includes dreams and living a day at a time with a bit of craziness because I know this is the only way to reach my goals without being afraid of failing, falling and getting back up," he says.

In 2011, he began studying design and communication. Everything began with the hope of earning degree without knowing it would turn into his big passion. He didn't think it would help him create his own line of leather handbags and accessories.

With the unconditional support of his parents, he managed to set up his workshop. "I wanted my designs to have an artisanal technique and I recruited artisans from Masaya — a magical place known for its crafts, especially its leatherwork.

"We are demonstrating that collaboration permits an innovative aesthetic and image that can reach new shoppers," he says. "We are inspired by pre-Hispanic vases and everything that makes us known as Nicaraguans who are proud of our roots and traditions."

"It's been a challenge to divide my time between work and managing my project. But all of this effort has helped me reach where I am today, taking the helm of a solid workshop that is creating new jobs as well as new designs.

"All of our designs feature a modern touch that perfectly fuses with Nicaraguan roots and adapts them to our needs. We craft comfortable items that can be used daily with modern styles, and use an attractive combination of colors."

Donald hopes to help all of his collaborators to form a solid, unified team so they can seek out their dreams and goals."

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Ernestina Asante

West Africa

Although carving has long been regarded as the preserve of men, Ernestina has been able to make her own mark on the industry, carving her own masks and djembe drums.

Through her sales with NOVICA, Ernestina has grown as an entrepreneur, expanding her business and taking on apprentices. She even persuaded her husband who was a taxi driver to quit his job and join NOVICA as a carver.